The Story of American Surgery Film Project

The Story of American Surgery is a proposed multi-part documentary that will trace surgery from its earliest beginnings through the advances of modern medicine and toward the future of the field. The project is being developed by ACS Fellows, the ACS Foundation, and Ewers Brothers Productions.

Why This Story Matters

Surgery has transformed what is possible in medicine, yet much of its history—and what happens behind the operating room doors—remains unfamiliar to the public.

The film will connect the breakthroughs that shaped modern surgery with the experiences of today’s surgeons and patients, revealing the science, skill, judgment, trust, and human effort behind surgical care.

This is an opportunity to preserve that history, share it with a broad audience, and inspire the next generation of surgeons and healthcare leaders.

Bringing the Story to Life

Through interviews with surgeons, historians, and patients, archival materials, historic locations, and contemporary surgeries filmed across the United States, the documentary will bring the history of surgery to life. Educational resources and companion content are also planned to extend the film’s impact beyond the screen.

Ewers Brothers Productions brings decades of documentary experience, including extensive work with filmmaker Ken Burns and projects such as The Mayo Clinic: Faith, Hope, Science.

Your Support Moves the Project Forward

The project must reach $500,000 in seed funding through the ACS Foundation before moving forward. These funds will support the materials needed to help secure additional funding for the full documentary production.

Support The Story of American Surgery

Your gift can help take this project from an idea to a story shared with audiences across the country. Due to the time sensitivity of this project, pledges may be made over 2026 and 2027, but cannot be extended beyond two years.